[devilsadvocate]

Well, this was my very first season umpiring.

Without going into alot of detail, what I learned was, basically, I had alot to learn. From rules, game management, calling behind the plate, mechanics, what equipment to get, etc. I also learned that there is alot of truth behind the phrase "You can either be an umpire with 20 years of experience, or an umpire with 1 year of experience repeated 20 times".

This is also my first year in an association. I'm just beginning to see some of the politics that many of you have mentioned.

The internet has been a godsend. Not only for learning rules, but reading about experiences that other umpires have, some good, some bad, without actually have to go through the learning process (or at least I'll be prepared for the test).

Good idea Pete.